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| Hannah (Anna Dobson), Bernard (Adam Lowe), Thomasina (Catherine Ellis), Septimus (Adam Owers) |
A unique and interesting play involving inter-relating timelines,
with a complex and compelling plot. Simplistic set design is often difficult to
master, but master it they did. Only using a large dining table with a few
chairs, lectern and occasional props, this allowed the audience to focus on the
complexity of the story. The misted panels at the back of the set produced a
lovely diffused lighting effect, adding to the atmosphere of the scenes (although
occasionally the paper-based panels detracted from the feeling of the scene by rustling
as they were moved). The set designer Sands Hope Dobson, alongside lighting
designers Will Lupton and James Appleby, created an apt mood that suited the
tone of the play and its performance.
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| Hannah (Anna Dobson), Septimus (Adam Owers), Bernard (Adam Lowe), Thomasina (Catherine Ellis) |
As to the actors, there was not a weak performance amidst
them, a truly well-crafted cast, each well-fitted to their roles. Catherine
Ellis gives a wondrous performance as the inquisitive Thomansia; Adam Owers commands
the stage as the witty and charismatic Septimus; Anna Dobsons utilised every
article of wit and sarcasm, appearing to be as relaxed in the role as her character
Hannah Jarvis would be. However, perhaps
my favourite of all was James Critchley as Gus, whose mute character did much
to endear the audience to him. It must be said that all of the actors managed
the difficult trick of being completely involved in their characters’ own worlds,
even when the two collided. A funny and thought-provoking show that will leave
you contemplating all the mysteries of life.
Arcadia runs until Saturday 16th March at The
People’s Theatre.
